T650 vs T870

[nch77]

I'm looking into buying a newer Bobcat CTL, the two I'm looking at now are a 2011 T870 and a 2012 T650. The main thing I'll be doing is dirt work, leveling and digging. Might do some mowing but not much planned since I have a few bush hogs and two tractors. Both have joystick controls, ~2000 hours and new tracks. The T650 will be easier to transport but I'm not sure it will have the power to push through dirt piles and roots that the 870 will have. How much difference is there in power between these machines and is there any other reason to prefer one over the other?

 

[nch77]

Went to look at both, the T870 is in great shape but the T650 is a little rough, decent amount of side movement in the lift arms. Also the quick-change is shot and needs to be replaced.

 

[Xfaxman]

We need pictures of the T870 when you get it, please.

 

[nch77]

Picked up the T870, it's a beast.

We need pictures of the T870 when you get it, please.

 

[Xfaxman]

Thanks for the pictures, it looks like a real workhorse!

 

[laurencen]

did this machine have weights bolted to the motor cover at one time

 

[ruffdog]

did this machine have weights bolted to the motor cover at one time

I'm wondering if that is blocked off for cold weather operation?

 

[ruffdog]

Here is a good DIY youtube site for doing repairs on Bobcats:

https://www.youtube.com/user/bradybsw/videos

 

[amhicks21]

You made the right choice. We have a s650 and a wide track t650 at work and I hate both of them. Ive been telling my boss to trade the t650 for an t870 ever since he got it. My daily is a t590 so I dont have to suffer with them too often but I still don't like em.

 

[nch77]

I'm wondering if that is blocked off for cold weather operation?

It has a forestry package on it, cylinders have the guards on them, I assume the plate is to provide additional protection. Been using it the last two days, its a beast.